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Understanding L.A.’s New Plastics Reduction Ordinances & How They May Affect You

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The City of Los Angeles has taken significant steps to curb plastic pollution within the city through the recent implementation of various ordinances that aim to reduce single-use plastic consumption among Angelenos, foster a culture of sustainability and environmental responsibility among our residents and business, as well as contribute to a cleaner environment for all. Many single-use plastics are not recyclable or compostable in the city and are frequently littered in our communities.

Expanded Polystyrene (Styrofoam) Ban Ordinance 

Last December, the Los Angeles City Council adopted an ordinance, banning the sale and distribution of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) products (commonly known as Styrofoam™) in the City of Los Angeles.

The ban on EPS products is in effect for large food or beverage facilities and retail establishments (with more than 26 employees) and will be in effect on April 23, 2024, for all other food or beverage facilities and retail establishments.

There are many alternatives to EPS. Check out our EPS Product Alternatives Guide here to learn more.

Single-Use Carryout Bag Ban Ordinance

The City of Los Angeles adopted its first single-use carryout bag ban in June 2013 for the following types of businesses:

  • Supermarkets

  • Grocery stores

  • Drug stores

  • Convenience food stores

  • Food marts

  • Pharmacies

  • Other types of smaller food markets

In 2022, The City of Los Angeles adopted a second single-use carryout bag ban which expanded to the following businesses:

  • Apparel stores

  • Hardware stores

  • Food or beverage facilities

  • Farmer’s markets

  • Open-air markets

Recyclable paper bags for 10 cents and/or reusable bags are still allowed at all of these establishments.

Disposable Foodware Accessories & Straws On Request Ordinances

As a reminder, food or beverage facilities in the City of Los Angeles are prohibited from providing disposable foodware accessories including disposable plastic drinking straws to customers except upon customer request.

Reusable Foodware Microgrant Program – Apply now! 

We provide financial and technical assistance through our Reusable Foodware Microgrant Program to help food or beverage establishments with dine-in operations transition to reusable foodware. Funding is still available.

You Got Questions, We Got Answers!

More information about the ordinances and how to apply for the microgrant can be found at lacitysan.org/sourcereduction.

Please feel free to contact us by email at srcrd@lacity.org or by phone at 213-485-2260 if you have any questions or would like to receive an informational presentation at your next community or association meeting.

Our 10-minute informational presentation will include an overview of all of the new waste reduction ordinances, how they may impact residents and businesses, and what you can do to help support a cleaner and greener Los Angeles. We ask that you provide us at least a 7-day notice in advance of your scheduled meeting.

We hope to hear from you soon!

Solid Resources Citywide Recycling Division
LA Sanitation & Environment

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